How to drive the 25 hairpin turns to Koh-e Nihalah in Samangan Province?
Kōh-e Nihālah is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.980m (9,776ft) above sea level, located in Samangan Province in Afghanistan. Traveling in this country is entirely at the discretion of the individual. Each traveler is fully responsible for their own safety and well-being.
Where is Kōh-e Nihālah?
The peak is located in the northeastern part of the country, 160 km northwest of Kabul, the nation's capital. At the summit, there’s a communication tower.
Is the road to Kōh-e Nihālah unpaved?
The road to the pass is totally unpaved, with rocks on the way, very steep, 25 hairpin turns, very narrow, and faces many drops. The peak is guarded by heavily armed Taliban. A 4x4 vehicle is required.
How long is the road to Kōh-e Nihālah?
Set high in the Hindu Kush mountains, the road to the summit is 8.9 km (5.53 miles) long, starting from Ruy Doab. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 876 m and the average gradient is 9.84%.
Is it safe to drive to Kōh-e Nihālah?
Security conditions in Afghanistan remain extremely unstable and hazardous. The country faces ongoing armed conflict, frequent terrorist attacks, and a high risk of kidnapping, particularly for foreigners. Many embassies have temporarily closed or suspended operations, so consular support is very limited. Overland travel is exceptionally risky, as armed groups and criminals sometimes establish fake checkpoints or roadblocks to commit robberies, kidnappings, or acts of violence. Anyone considering travel should exercise the utmost caution and recognize that safety cannot be guaranteed under current circumstances.